2021 Gabbro

This is a fabulous set of new releases from Montepeloso and proprietor Fabio Chiarelotto. Montepeloso fans will note the addition of Alpha, a new wine made from young vines and some purchased fruit intended for near-term consumption. The heart of the range focuses on Eneo, Nardo and Gabbro. Eneo emerges from vineyards in Suvereto's Montepeloso district, just above Tua Rita. These are the estate's oldest vines. The warmer microclimate often yields a wine that is quite bold. Nardo and Gabbro are both sourced from vineyards near Chiarelotto's home, where a slightly cooler microclimate and soils with a greater presence of galestro yield wines of greater nuance and energy.

Beginning in 2020, Chiarelotto shortened aging in wood dramatically for his top wines to 8-10 months from the 12-16 that were once the norm. Additionally, Chiarelotto has increased his focus on Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon in Eneo and Nardo while eliminating Montepulciano and Alicante from the blends. Lastly, Chiarelotto is picking a bit earlier than in the past, which results in wines of greater overall vibrancy.

In tasting, the 2020s show the bruising intensity of the year, especially in their larger-grained tannins. The 2021s, on the other hand, are much more seamless and integrated, even in the early going, a tell-tale sign of a superior vintage.